09/10/2026
Belforest Volunteer Fire Department is proud to recognize Battalion Chief and Training Officer Michael Aaron, CFO®, on earning the prestigious Chief Fire Officer® (CFO®) designation from the Commission on Professional Credentialing® (CPC®) through the Center for Public Safety Excellence® (CPSE®).
The Commission on Professional Credentialing awarded Chief Aaron the professional designation of Chief Fire Officer® on September 10, 2026. Following an extensive peer-review process, the designation recognizes demonstrated excellence in seven measured components: experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association membership, community involvement, and technical competence.
Chief Aaron serves Belforest VFD as a Battalion Chief and Training Officer, providing operational leadership while helping develop and prepare our firefighters and officers to safely and effectively serve the Belforest community. He also serves as an Adjunct Instructor with the Alabama Fire College, allowing him to bring additional instructional experience and professional development opportunities back to our members.
Chief Aaron's commitment to education and professional development extends beyond the CFO® designation. He recently earned an Associate of Science in Fire Science and a Bachelor of Science in Fire Department Administration from Columbia Southern University.
He has also continued his professional development through the Alabama fire service, earning certifications across operations, leadership, instruction, prevention, investigation, technical rescue, and emergency medical services.
Alabama Fire Service Credentials:
Firefighter I & II • Fire Officer IV • Fire Instructor III • Live Fire Instructor & Instructor in Charge • Fire Inspector III • Fire Investigator • Fire Plans Examiner • Rope Rescue Technician • Common Passenger Vehicle Rescue Technician • Alabama EMT • Alabama Fire College Adjunct Instructor
These accomplishments represent more than individual professional milestones. The knowledge and experience Chief Aaron gains through continued education, credentialing, and instruction are brought back to Belforest VFD through training, mentorship, operational leadership, and the continued development of our members.
The officers and members of the Belforest Volunteer Fire Department congratulate Chief Aaron on this significant achievement. We are proud to have him as part of our leadership team and appreciate his continued commitment to our members, our department, and the community we serve.
Congratulations, Chief Aaron!